TORONTO, Feb. 21, 2025 – In a groundbreaking decision, Ontario’s Physician Coroners have overwhelmingly voted to join the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO), becoming the first group of doctors in Ontario to unionize.

Dr. Jeannie Walton, President of the Ontario Coroners Association, stated, “This marks a crucial turning point for Ontario’s Coroners. The death investigation system in Ontario has been struggling for years due to flawed policy decisions. With the input of front-line coroners, we are confident that we can advocate for improvements to restore our system to its former world-class status.”

The Ontario Coroners initially submitted an application for certification to the Ontario Labour Relations Board in 2022. Despite a strong vote of 96 per cent in favor of joining OPSEU/SEFPO, the Crown rejected the application, denying physician coroners the right to collective bargaining based on their profession. This rejection initiated their battle to secure the rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining, as guaranteed by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

In April 2023, OPSEU/SEFPO launched a constitutional challenge, demanding that the province recognize the Coroners’ rights to bargain collectively. This challenge, coupled with ongoing organizing efforts by Coroners and OPSEU/SEFPO, led to years of negotiations with the Crown to establish a Framework Agreement. The agreement was finalized in late 2024 and ratified by Ontario Coroners earlier this month.

Dr. Jeannie Walton added, “This vote is a well-deserved victory, achieved despite significant staff turnover caused by stagnant wages and increasing job insecurity. We persisted because we understood the potential consequences of inaction for our profession and the people of Ontario. I commend the dedicated physicians who serve the Ontario public as coroners. While physician coroners tirelessly ‘Speak for the Dead to Protect the Living,’ we can now ensure they have a voice to address systemic issues and revitalize Ontario’s Death Investigation System, restoring it to its once-respected position.”

This month’s vote represents a major milestone in the pursuit of fair working conditions and job security for the 350 Coroners in Ontario, who will now officially become members of the union that represents over 180,000 public service workers across the province.

JP Hornick, President of OPSEU/SEFPO, stated, “The historical importance of this moment and the four-year journey to reach it cannot be overstated. This vote has empowered a vital group of front-line medical professionals to advocate for improved working conditions through collective bargaining for the first time. I am thrilled to welcome Ontario Coroners to OPSEU/SEFPO.”

SOURCE Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU/SEFPO)

“`